Basic gardening techniques and plant care for home gardeners.
40 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is the best time to water most garden plants?
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Early morning, so water soaks in before heat and plants have moisture through the day.
- How do you test if soil needs water?
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Push your finger 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, water is needed.
- What does loamy soil consist of?
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A balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay, ideal for most garden plants.
- What does it mean when soil drains poorly?
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Water sits on top or in the soil instead of flowing through, risking root rot.
- How many hours of direct sunlight do full-sun plants typically need?
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At least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- What is the difference between full sun and partial shade?
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Full sun is 6+ hours of direct sunlight. Partial shade is 3 to 6 hours.
- What do NPK numbers on fertilizer mean?
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N is nitrogen, P is phosphorus, K is potassium - the three main plant nutrients.
- What is the primary role of nitrogen in plants?
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Promotes leaf and stem growth and green color.
- What is the primary role of phosphorus in plants?
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Promotes root development, flowering, and fruit production.
- What is the primary role of potassium in plants?
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Strengthens stems, improves disease resistance, and enhances overall plant health.
- What is composting?
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The process of breaking down organic materials like kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil amendment.
- What should you NOT compost?
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Meat, dairy, oils, diseased plants, and weeds with seeds.
- What is pruning used for?
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Removing dead or overgrown branches to improve plant shape, health, and flower or fruit production.
- When is the best time to prune most shrubs and trees?
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In late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
- What is repotting?
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Transferring a plant to a larger container with fresh soil to accommodate root growth.